News
Court Adjourns Trial of Chinese Nationals
- A Nigerian court adjourned the trial of five Chinese nationals to March 5.
- The defendants rejected the court-appointed interpreter, delaying proceedings.
- They are accused of cybercrime and identity theft under Nigeria’s Cybercrimes Act.
The trial of five Chinese nationals arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for alleged identity theft and cybercrime has been adjourned to March 4 and 5 after the defendants rejected the court-appointed interpreter.
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Justice Ayokunle Faji, presiding over the case, ruled that the trial could not proceed without an interpreter acceptable to the defendants, thereby postponing the proceedings to ensure compliance with legal provisions that guarantee fair trial rights.
The defendants, Zhao Ying Bin, Yuzi (also known as Wei Xuehuan), Zhang Yang, Weng Zhi Cheng, and Genting International Co. Limited, were apprehended in December 2024 for allegedly employing Nigerian youths to engage in cyber fraud and identity theft.
During Tuesday’s hearing, prosecution counsel Hannatu Kofanaisa informed the court that the EFCC was ready to proceed with the trial.
However, defense counsel N. Abraham requested an adjournment, citing the need for adequate defense preparation and a proper interpreter, as required under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015.
Granting the request, Justice Faji scheduled the trial for early March.
The EFCC had arraigned the defendants on February 6, accusing them of using computer systems to undermine Nigeria’s constitutional structure by organizing cybercriminal activities.
The prosecution alleged that they recruited Nigerian youths to commit identity fraud, pretending to be foreign nationals for financial gain.
The charges, which fall under the Cybercrimes Prohibition Act 2015 (amended in 2024), also include making false statements to obtain financial instruments.
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Specifically, Zhao Ying Bin was accused of falsely identifying himself as “Lisi Chuan” on Telegram with the intent to deceive and secure financial benefits for his employer.
If convicted, the defendants face severe penalties under Sections 18 and 22(3) of the Cybercrimes Prohibition Act.
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